Lost and Found: Why You Should Microchip Your Pets

As a new pet owner, one of the big decisions you need to make is whether or not to have your pet microchipped.

Microchipping is the process of implanting a radio transmitter under the skin of your pet that uses passive RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology to identify your pet when scanned. That may sound scary, but, in reality, it is a completely safe and quick procedure.

But some pet owners still ask, why should I microchip my pet? There are four main reasons:

It's an inexpensive, one-time purchase.

On average, having your pet microchipped is about $45. This is a one-time cost that can save you from unimaginable heartbreak down the road if your pet goes missing.

To put this cost in perspective, it's also a lot cheaper than other potential forms of searching for your lost pet, such as printing and distributing flyers or taking out ads in the paper and online.

It's painless to implant.

What many owners are surprised to find out is that the microchip itself is only as big as a grain of rice.

The tiny radio transmitter is then implanted into the scruff of your pet's neck. This is a very fleshy area of your pet's body, making the implantation virtually painless. Most animals don't even realize it's happening!

It's the safest and most reliable form of identification.

Microchips are designed to last up to 25 years, which is much longer than the lifespan of your average cat or dog. Since all of the details of your pet's identification are saved digitally, you don't have to worry about the information being lost or destroyed.

It gives your lost pet the best chance of being returned home safely.

The biggest reasons why stray pets aren't returned home is that they've lost their collars or the tags have become illegible due to time and wear. Digital microchips completely eliminate this tragic possibility.

Whether you're adopting a new puppy or kitten or have an older cat or dog already in your life, next time you're at the veterinarian ask them about microchipping. Your veterinarian will be happy to answer any of your questions and address any concerns you may have.